A record number of institutions have submitted entries to the Times Higher Education Awards, and now the countdown to the 2008 event begins in earnest.
With more than 130 higher education institutions having put forward over 500 entries, this year's event promises to be bigger and better than ever.
The hopefuls are vying for awards in 18 categories - one more than last year - with the shortlisted entrants due to be announced on 25 September.
The winners will be crowned at a black-tie awards ceremony, held, as it was last year, at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, on Thursday 23 October.
Ann Mroz, editor of Times Higher Education, said: "It has been wonderful to see the huge number of entries this year from so many institutions.
"Every year we are amazed by the response from the sector, but this year has surpassed all expectations. Universities and what they do deserve to be celebrated, and we are proud to showcase their endeavours."
To book a place at the awards dinner, click here or contact Maria Myers by e-mail, maria@createvents.co.uk or by calling 01252 781178.